Photo: Swedish defenseman and Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Tom Nilsson has previously competed internationally for his country, but this is his first time playing at the U-20 WJC (courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

For Sweden's Filip Forsberg, the 2013 World Junior Championship provides a chance to cement the idea that Sweden has arrived as a hockey power at the junior level. Forsberg was a part of his country's gold medal squad at the 2012 World Juniors, with his performance at that tournament no doubt helping to solidify his stock for the 2012 NHL Draft.

Defenseman Tom Nilsson, on the other hand, is getting his first taste of the U-20 experience. Injuries to a handful of Sweden's top defensemen opened the door for other defenders such as Nilsson to step into the breach and prove their worth on the international stage. Sweden's defense seems to have held up well so far at this WJC, with the team headed towards a semi-final match against host team Russia.

Nilsson is a 2011 draft pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs while Forsberg was chosen in the first round of the 2012 draft by the Washington Capitals. Forsberg has picked up two goals and two assists in four games at the this WJC while Nilsson has notched two assists.

Forsberg and Nilsson spoke with the media following their practice in preparation for Sweden's semi-final match, with their comments being included in this HF video.